Lebanon bans 'Wonder Woman' over Israeli lead Gal Gadot

The film's casting of Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who plays the iconic heroine "Wonder Woman", has prompted Lebanon's ministry of economy and commerce to ban the film.

"The ministry of economy and commerce issued a decree to start necessary procedures to ban the movie's screening," a statement by the ministry said, adding that a previous decree issued last year banned all movies featuring the Israeli actress.

The ban falls in line with Lebanon's boycott of Israel, which is considered an enemy state.

Similar action was taken in 2016, when the film Batman vs Superman was released – also starring Gadot as Wonder Woman. 

In August 2014, the Israeli actress caused a stir after posting a picture of herself praying for Israeli forces as Israel led a military offensive against Gaza.

"I am sending my love and prayers to [...] all the boys and girls who are risking their lives protecting my country against the horrific acts conducted by Hamas, who are hiding like cowards behind women and children...We shall overcome!!! Shabbat Shalom!" Gadot wrote.

Many in Lebanon have backed the boycott but not necessarily the ban of the film.

"I want Wonder Woman to succeed so bad but I also don't support Gal Gadot and her Zionist opinions Help" said a Lebanese Twitter user.

But in Lebanon, many are frustrated at state censorship.

"The government has no business telling me what to watch," another Facebook user said.

"In my opinion, there's no justification to ban any film as long as there are no direct benefits for a terrorist side such as [Israel]. To me, films should always be nationless," another user on Facebook said.

"I'm against censorship but I have to say I'm not keen on buying a ticket to this movie anymore," another user said.  

Wonder Woman was scheduled for screening in Lebanon on Thursday.